Man City focus on Everton as Guardiola backs squad amid exits
Köln may activate an option, around mid single-digit millions, to sign Man City loanee Jahmai Simpson-Pusey permanently, with City retaining a buy-back clause after his 10 outings since January.
City visit the Hill Dickinson Stadium aiming to use a game in hand to close on Arsenal. UK TV: Sky Sports Premier League from 6.30pm BST, Main Event from 7.45pm. Stream via Sky Go.
Rodri is a doubt to face Everton after a calf issue and has not been pictured in training. If absent, Bernardo will start in midfield with Nico or Kovacic likely to cover as City chase vital points.
Inter’s title triggers a clause to buy Manuel Akanji for €15m. The Switzerland defender has 44 appearances and 2 goals this season and will leave Manchester City permanently.
Guardiola’s first Everton visit brought a rude awakening. Now City seek a routine result at the Hill Dickinson Stadium to avoid shocks in the title race.
Guardiola says Jack Grealish’s future ‘depends on him’, praising his Everton loan impact before injury. With Bernardo Silva leaving, a City role is possible, though a summer decision awaits.
Guardiola insists he has ‘incredible energy’ at City, hails the club’s support, and says pressure feels lighter despite a domestic treble bid. City must beat Everton to keep up with Arsenal.
Guardiola dismisses doubts over Rayan Cherki being a ‘typical’ Pep player, lauding his impact after 10 goals and 13 assists. Cherki’s creativity has been key in City’s domestic treble push.
City table a richer long-term deal for Josko Gvardiol, aiming to ward off Real Madrid interest. The 24-year-old, key at left-back, is nearing fitness after a tibial fracture and enters his last two years.
City have opened talks on a long-term deal for Phil Foden, out of contract in 2027, and remain ‘protective’ and ‘supportive’ despite his dip in minutes. Barcelona and Bayern links noted.
Nico O’Reilly explains thriving as an inverted left-back suits his midfield roots. The England international has shone under Guardiola, exemplified by a Carabao Cup final brace versus Arsenal.
Report claims Barcelona have an 80% agreement to sign departing City captain Bernardo Silva, who would accept a 60% pay cut. Jorge Mendes is pushing to finalise terms.
Guardiola says Bernardo Silva and John Stones are ‘relieved’ after confirming exits and remain fully focused. Both have trained well before Everton, with City chasing Arsenal and eyeing the FA Cup final.
Sheffield Wednesday, under new ownership, want Manchester City loanee Jaden Heskey permanently after 20 Championship games, but his City deal could complicate talks for a League One move.
